Cemeteries have a way of provoking diverse reactions. Because of the nature of their association with death, it is natural that some people would feel intimidated or uneasy about the whole notion of “graveyards.” Others see them as historical repositories that offer a glimpse […]

It was very sad to see that Elio Guaitolini passed away in late July 2016. For anyone familiar with the New York restaurant scene in the last 30+ years, Elio was a much beloved figure. His charming Italian eatery on 2nd Avenue at 84th was a fixture where good food, friendly atmosphere, and attentive service […]

Baseball Today When the Final Four disappears into our rear-view mirror, the attention of the sports world will once again focus on Opening Day in Major League Baseball. While MLB can no longer claim to be the “national pastime” – the NFL firmly owns that title – the game is going through a golden era […]

Easter in Texas Here in Texas, by the end of March spring is well on its way, the bluebonnets have bloomed, and everyone is celebrating new life as Easter Sunday approaches. Easter is not only a time of new life as plants and animals renew for the season but a time to honor how death brings […]

Spending the Holidays away from family and loved ones seems unthinkable, and, yet, it is the reality for so many men and women who serve in the Armed Forces. In 2009, my husband Jared McDonald (Martin Oaks’ Operations Manager) and I celebrated Christmas on November 17th. We knew he would be leaving for Afghanistan any […]